Shillong, May 27: Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP), in partnership with Dasra, has announced the commencement of registrations for the Samvardhan Biodiversity & Conservation Fellowship, designed to support emerging conservation leaders. Co-curated by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and Dasra, and seed-funded by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, this inaugural 12-month fellowship will provide comprehensive support to emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in underrepresented geographies and non-elite institutions.
A statement in this regard said that the deadline for registration is July 12, 2026.
The fellowship aims to address the unique barriers faced by early-career conservationists, including limited access to mentorship, financial resources, and professional networks. By providing seed grants, mentorship, and peer learning, the fellowship aspires to equip a new generation of conservation leaders to strengthen India’s biodiversity and conservation ecosystem.
WHO CAN APPLY?
• Early-career conservation researchers and practitioners under 35 years of age.
• Individuals engaged in public-interest conservation in research, community work, or related fields.
• Applicants from diverse educational backgrounds, grassroots communities, and underrepresented regions across India.
• Applicants can apply through: https://samvardhan.dasra.org/
Young practitioners working closely with communities and ecosystems often have deep knowledge and commitment, but very little support. The Samvardhan Fellowship is built on a simple belief: that people doing this work deserve trust, time, and the freedom to ask difficult questions, explore new pathways, and grow within a community of peers. If we want more resilient and inclusive conservation pathways, we must invest not just in projects, but also in young people, relationships, and long-term learning.” said Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies.
Core Components of the Fellowship
The Samvardhan Fellowship is designed as a learning, mentorship, and practice-support platform for emerging conservation practitioners, through three key components:
1. Seed Grant of Rs 3 lakh for practice-led or exploratory conservation work.
2. Mentorship from conservation experts and access to a diverse community of champions throughout the year. Fellows will also have regular check-ins with mentors and additional support sessions.
3. Peer Learning and Community Building, through cohort activities, knowledge sessions, and skill-building workshops, ensuring Fellows can learn from each other and grow together.
“The future of conservation in India depends on whether our young practitioners are supported to lead through the complexity of systems of change. The Samvardhan Fellowship is part of Dasra’s mission to strengthen and diversify the ecosystem of philanthropic leadership.” said Neera Nundy, Co-founder & Partner, Dasra.
For more information, visit https://samvardhan.dasra.org/
About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP)
Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNP) is a leading philanthropic organization dedicated to addressing India’s most critical social challenges. Established by Rohini Nilekani, RNP focuses on fostering systemic change across key areas such as education, environment, gender equity, and public accountability.
RNP’s approach is grounded in the belief that lasting impact comes from strengthening Samaaj (society), alongside the efforts of government and market. By supporting innovative and scalable solutions, RNP partners with organizations and leaders committed to creating inclusive, equitable, and sustainable change.
Over the years, RNP has played a pivotal role in empowering communities, advancing public interest, and fostering responsible environmental stewardship. Through trust-based, collaborative partnerships, RNP continues to drive transformative change, working towards a more inclusive and resilient India.
About DASRA
Dasra is a strategic philanthropic support organisation founded in 1999, with roots in supporting early-stage nonprofits through funding and capacity building. Over the years, it has evolved into a leading systems orchestrator in India’s social impact ecosystem, enabling collective action by connecting nonprofits, funders, and government stakeholders to address India’s most pressing development challenges. Dasra works towards a vision of an India where a billion people thrive with dignity
